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Inside Out LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Toronto
FilmMay – Jun

Inside Out Film Festival

One of the world's largest LGBTQ+ film festivals — celebrating queer cinema since 1991.

When

May 21–31, 2026

Where

TIFF Lightbox

Area

Entertainment District

Cost

Paid · $14-$25 per screening

Format

indoor

Attendance

35K+ visitors

Running Since

1991 (35 years)

Family Friendly

Not typically

VT Insider Tip

The opening night gala film usually sets the tone for the whole festival — it's worth the splurge. For value, the shorts programs are consistently excellent and easier to get into.

About

Inside Out is one of the largest and most influential LGBTQ+ film festivals in the world. Every spring, it showcases over 200 films from 30+ countries — features, documentaries, and shorts that center queer stories and voices. It's a cultural anchor for Toronto's LGBTQ+ community and an essential stop on the international queer film circuit.

What to Expect

11 days of film screenings, panels, parties, and industry events across multiple Toronto venues. Films range from crowd-pleasing comedies to challenging art house. Most screenings followed by filmmaker Q&As.

Pro Tips

Buy a pass if you plan to see 5+ films — it's significantly cheaper per screening. TIFF Lightbox and the Scotiabank Theatre are the main venues. Book early for the opening and closing galas.

Getting There

Most screenings at TIFF Lightbox (King & John) — TTC to St. Andrew station. Some screenings at other downtown venues — all transit accessible.
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